15:29The microtransit initiative, set to begin next Tuesday, will operate from Monday to Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., using a fleet of ten vehicles, including standard minivans and wheelchair-accessible vehicles, to ensure inclusivity. The fare is set at $1.80 per trip, making it an affordable option for individuals within the service area. Residents can request rides via a mobile app or a dedicated phone line, and the service is available in both English and Spanish, with potential for additional language support to accommodate Passaic County’s diverse population.

24:58The program’s service area covers all of Clifton and Paterson, with particular focus on the Four Seasons community, which had been historically divided by city borders. The inclusion of this community reflects the program’s effort to bridge transportation gaps and ensure comprehensive coverage without logistical inconsistencies. The app features ten permanent destinations significant to the community, including parks, shopping centers, and train stations, facilitating easy navigation for users.

13:45A key aspect of the program is its focus on addressing transportation disparities for populations lacking reliable vehicle access. With many individuals in Clifton and Paterson not owning cars or finding it difficult to access fixed-route transit due to distance, the microtransit service provides a solution to these challenges. It extends operational hours beyond existing paratransit services, allowing more flexibility and convenience for residents who rely on public transportation.

21:29Marketing strategies for the program include physical signage at New Jersey Transit stations and community sites, alongside brochures and pamphlets to raise awareness. A launch incentive offers a free month of rides to encourage initial use and introduce residents to the service. Additionally, the program allows for the purchase of passes for frequent use, further incentivizing utilization.

09:44A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the partnership with local fire departments and the Red Cross’s efforts in enhancing community safety through smoke alarm installations. The Red Cross representatives highlighted their response to 217 disasters over the past two and a half years, emphasizing the collaboration with Passaic County. The initiative aims to install free smoke alarms in Paterson and Passaic, with events scheduled for May 31st. This effort is part of a broader strategy to improve fire safety and community preparedness, especially for senior groups and individuals with hearing impairments.

The Red Cross also addressed the importance of quick evacuation times in emergencies, noting the critical two-minute window once an alarm sounds. Specialized smoke alarms for the hearing-impaired, featuring bed shakers, were highlighted as an innovative solution to enhance safety for those who might not hear traditional alarms.

29:07In addition to transportation and safety initiatives, the meeting recognized recent achievements by county officials and local teams. Commissioner Bartlett and Commissioner Duffy were inducted into the County Commissioner Hall of Fame at the New Jersey Association of Counties convention. The Passaic County Technical Institute’s culinary team received accolades for their performance at the same event, earning scholarships for their culinary creations.

31:30The meeting also acknowledged May as Older Americans Month, with a proclamation recognizing the contributions of the state’s residents aged 60 and older. An invitation was extended to celebrate Asian-Pacific American and Native Hawaiian Heritage Month.